Here’s How Science Determines Your Worth (And It’s Not Great)
Written on
Understanding Your Value
Have you ever found yourself pondering, "If I were to analyze my body by its elemental composition, what would be my monetary worth?" While it's not a common thought, research has delved into this question. Unfortunately, the findings are not particularly flattering.
According to Dr. Anne Marie Helmenstine, the elements that constitute your body—65% oxygen, 18% carbon, 3% nitrogen, and various others—amount to roughly $1. Yes, just a single dollar.
This revelation shows that, at a basic level, we are comprised of quite ordinary elements, and these components are in a constant state of flux. Most of these elements exit your body within a year, only to be replaced by new ones. Studies indicate that, on average, your entire body regenerates its cells approximately every seven years.
Ultimately, down to the last atom, you are fundamentally a new individual. With this constant renewal, it raises an essential question: Who are you?
Your Value Is Not Fixed
Your worth, like many things in life, is subject to change based on external perceptions. For instance, during the initial months of the pandemic, the price of toilet paper soared above that of Nike shoes. Conversely, a property can lose significant value overnight due to an economic downturn, regardless of its unchanged physical state.
Your personal value fluctuates too. It tends to rise when you contribute positively to others' lives. However, it’s crucial to note that your self-worth shouldn't hinge solely on others' opinions. Instead, it’s about how you can enhance the lives of those around you.
While your physical body may be estimated at just a dollar, the fact that you are alive and capable of action allows for limitless potential to increase your value. What differentiates you from others with a similar "dollar body" is how you choose to live your life and the significance you hold for others.
The Essence of Importance
The individuals who matter most in your life are those who provide you with something valuable. This "giving" often transcends monetary contributions. In fact, those who have the least financially can offer the most in terms of intangible qualities.
Your friends provide love and support, your parents offer education and protection, and your children give you motivation to strive for your best self each day.
The more you contribute, the greater your influence becomes in someone’s life. The key is to give without expecting anything in return. True impact comes from unconditional generosity, which is the secret to living a meaningful life.
Increasing Your Value Beyond Measure
To elevate your worth beyond a mere physical estimate, recognize that you are not solely your body. With every cell in your body being replaced over time, the original version of you essentially ceases to exist after about seven years. Despite this cellular turnover, your identity remains intact, suggesting that there is something non-physical that defines you.
As Pierre Teilhard de Chardin wisely stated, "We are not human beings having a spiritual experience; we are spiritual beings having a human experience." Thus, if your true self is viewed as a soul or something intangible, your real worth must come from qualities beyond the physical realm. Your net worth should not be determined by material possessions or bank accounts.
In truth, it’s entirely possible to be valued at over $100 billion when your significance to someone outweighs all physical possessions combined. For instance, I would never trade my baby daughter for any sum of money, despite her current contributions being limited to basic needs.
So, how can you enhance your non-physical valuation? Here are three actionable steps anyone can take:
- Establish a Solid Foundation — Baha’u’llah once said, “Truthfulness is the foundation of all human virtues.” Although it can be challenging, being honest is crucial for fostering all positive traits. Genuine giving is empty without sincerity, which stems from truthfulness.
- Be Fully Present — Time is a precious resource. When you choose to invest it in someone, ensure you are fully engaged. Listen actively, seek understanding, and focus entirely on that individual during your interaction. You will stand out in a world overwhelmed by distractions.
- Spread Joy — Bringing happiness to others is one of the most straightforward ways to make an impact, and it also brings immense personal satisfaction. Go the extra mile to find the silver linings in difficult situations and strive to alleviate others' burdens.
As Horace Mann aptly stated, “Be ashamed to die until you have won some victory for humanity.” These victories need not be monumental; even the small, consistent actions you take daily contribute to becoming a better person and adding value to the lives of your loved ones and humanity at large.
The first video titled "Science Isn't Dogma, You're Just Stupid (Response to Formscapes)" discusses the implications of scientific reasoning and the importance of critical thinking.
The second video titled "Terrence Howard is Legitimately Insane" explores unconventional beliefs and their impact on perception and reality.